scope:

The scope statements encompass all portions of the code and are similar to the corresponding administrative provisions of the prescriptive codes. They provide an overall understanding of the limits and applications of the document. For example, the scope statement for Part II-Building notes that "this code provides requirements for structural strength, stability, sanitation, means of access and egress, light and ventilation, safety to life and protection of property from fire and, in general, to secure life and property from other hazards affecting the built environment."

There is a similar scope statement provided for Part III-Fire.

The purpose of the performance code is to promote innovative, flexible and responsive solutions that optimize the expenditure and consumption of resources while preserving social and economic value. This approach is unique to the structure of a performance- based code.

The intent statements have been expanded beyond the traditional intent of the prescriptive ICC family of codes to address varying levels of performance. In addition to these intent statements, specific goals in the form of objectives are found within each individual chapter to further delineate for all stakeholders the more detailed intended performance for the various goals mentioned in the intent statement such as egress and energy efficiency.

As noted, separate scope statements have been developed for Parts II and III of this code, whereas the code has a common administrative chapter in Part I. Part II-Building includes comprehensive performance provisions addressing all classes of hazards that may occur to or within a building and addressing the necessary functions to be provided by the built environment. These may include fire, structural stability, moisture, energy, plumbing and many other issues. The provisions of Part III-Fire apply to a specific subset of those hazards, specifically those involving safety from fire and hazardous materials and how the building can be used in a relatively safe manner.

Part III of this code goes beyond buildings, since it also deals with facilities, including contents, uses and processes. It is intended that Part III of this code be suitable for use as a stand-alone design tool for a performance-based design of facilities both within and independent of buildings. This is very similar to the prescriptive fire code, where the focus is on a particular process within a building instead of on the building itself. Further, the scope of Part III of this code can include, at the option of the adopting entity, some, none or all existing structures within the jurisdiction. Part III of the code can be used as a tool in the measurement of current fire risk within all or part of a jurisdiction, as well as a comprehensive methodology to apply retrospective fire safety measures where appropriate.